What is the customary fee for a full set of braces in Tacoma, WA?

You don't say how long it's been since you signed the contract. If it was recently, there should be a cancellation clause that lets you cancel in three to five days. If you have missed this window, I should think you could cancel based on your unwillingness or inability to get a "permit," especially if this was not made clear. If you have set up any kind of regular payments through an automatic draft, call your bank to avoid problems with that until you get the matter rectified.